ISWA NAARI 2017: Empowering women of Indian heritage

Sparked by the vision and tireless efforts of Bindiya Manchanda- ISWA management committee member, to empower women of Indian heritage, ISWA NAARI 2017 took form in January this year. Indian Society of Western Australia popularly known as ISWA gained momentum as twenty-five women , joined in her vision to create an inspirational event that would uplift and encourage Aussie Indian women.  Monthly volunteer meetings turned into fortnightly and weekly gatherings filled with excitement as the vision came into fruition.

“We envisioned an annual cultural day for ISWA, with the simple aim of empowering women, by providing an opportunity to network, celebrate strengths and enhance wellbeing,” Bindiya Manchanda said.

“NAARI 2017 provided a platform to share our expertise, passion and skills.  Women come together to relish this unique opportunity and celebrate ourselves as women enriched by two beautiful cultures- Indian and Australian.

ISWA NAARI Organising committee got a lot of financial support from various businesses, women entrepreneurs, professionals for the cause.

Our sponsors committed to either donating in cash or kind. We got  ISWA NAARI merchandise-showbags, coffee mugs, Mirror combs and a women services directory,” she added.

First 800 paid female Entry to venue got a free showbag full of goodies.

A complimentary copy of NAARI women services directory full of  handy contacts and discounts to meet needs of every Aussie Indian woman in WA.

Dr. Mike Nahan , Janine freeman- MLA stirling, Amber-Jade Sanderson- MLA Morley and  Lisa Harvey, were some of the distinguished guests visiting the Aussie Indian Women’s Expo.

There were lots of Indian street food to buy and enjoy including pani poori, chole bhature, dosas, curries and chai coffee and Mango lassi.

40 stalls – fashion, household, health advise and checks, wellness, education,

beauty, henna, clothing, jewellery, tax advice, real estate.

Hundreds of Naaris of all ages dressed in authentic Indian attire, state costume, traditional jewellery came along with families and won more than 100 door prizes, discount vouchers, freebies to take home. There was a massive raffle draw ,some of the prizes being diamond earrings, Gas start BBQ, Samsung phone, Flight centre voucher, Silk flower arrangements, gym voucher, Paintings, beauty products hampers by Arbonne and Juennesse, Enjo products and photography vouchers.

Motivational talks, musical vocal and instrumental performances, dances, share a skill and learn new skills, showcase – active wear, sarees of India, state costumes of India, what to look for when buying diamonds, Bollywood dancing for all workshop, cocktail dresses showcase were some of the programs entertaining at the stage throughout the day.